When it comes to wedding hairstyles, elegance often lies in simplicity. Half up, half down hairstyles are timeless and perfect for brides with medium-length hair. These hairstyles provide a balanced look, highlighting both the hair’s natural volume and beauty while allowing for a touch of creativity. Whether you’re the bride, a bridesmaid, or simply want to look your best at a wedding, these 16 simple half up half down hairstyles will elevate your look with ease.
16 Most Simple Half Up Half Down Wedding Medium Length Hair
1. Classic Half-Up Twist
The classic half-up twist is one of the most effortless yet beautiful hairstyles for medium-length hair. It begins with gathering two small sections from each side of your head, twisting them slightly, and pinning them at the back. This style is perfect for showcasing your natural texture or light waves, giving you a timeless and elegant appearance.
The simplicity of this style allows you to add hair accessories such as pins, combs, or flowers for an extra touch of bridal beauty. Whether you opt for a sleek look or loose waves, the half-up twist complements any wedding theme.
2. Half-Up with Loose Curls
Soft curls combined with a half-up, half-down look create a romantic and voluminous hairstyle. To achieve this, curl your hair loosely and pin back the upper section, allowing the curls to cascade down your shoulders. This look is ideal for brides who want to feel glamorous while keeping the overall style soft and effortless.
You can enhance the look with a delicate floral crown or a sparkling hairpin for added elegance. The loose curls provide the perfect frame for your face, while the pinned-up portion keeps the hair out of your way during the ceremony.
3. Half-Up with Braided Crown
For a modern yet whimsical wedding hairstyle, a half-up style paired with a braided crown is a must-try. Begin by braiding two small sections of hair on each side of your head and joining them at the back, creating a halo effect. The rest of your hair can either be straightened or curled for a contrast between the braid and the free-flowing hair.
This hairstyle offers a fairy-tale vibe, ideal for outdoor or bohemian-themed weddings. It also works well with medium-length hair, as the braids don’t require a lot of length but still give an intricate and polished appearance.
SEE ALSO: How to Style Thin Hair for a Wedding?
4. Twisted Half-Up with Beach Waves
For a more relaxed, beach-inspired look, try a twisted half-up style with beachy waves. Start by curling your hair with a large barrel curling iron to achieve loose, tousled waves. Then, take two sections from the front and twist them back, securing them with pins or a small elastic band at the back of your head.
The effortless, carefree nature of this hairstyle is perfect for destination weddings or outdoor settings. It’s a simple yet chic look that enhances your hair’s natural texture while giving you a polished appearance.
5. Half-Up with a Bouffant
Add volume and height to your half-up hairstyle by creating a bouffant at the crown of your head. This 1960s-inspired style involves teasing the top section of your hair and securing it at the back, creating a lifted effect. The rest of your hair can be left straight, curled, or waved.
This hairstyle is perfect for brides who want a classic and glamorous look. The added height from the bouffant elongates your face and adds a touch of sophistication, especially when paired with a veil or jeweled hair accessory.
6. Braided Half-Up Fishtail
A fishtail braid incorporated into a half-up, half-down style is perfect for brides who want a touch of uniqueness on their wedding day. Start by creating a fishtail braid with two small sections of hair from each side of your head, securing them at the back. The rest of your hair can be styled in soft curls for a romantic finish.
This style works well for both formal and rustic weddings, offering a versatile and intricate look. The fishtail braid adds a sense of texture and creativity, making it an excellent choice for brides who want something beyond the typical braid.
7. Half-Up with Twisted Braid
For an understated yet elegant look, try a half-up hairstyle with a twisted braid. This involves taking two sections from each side, twisting them loosely, and then braiding them together at the back. It creates a blend of twists and braids for a soft, natural appearance.
This hairstyle is ideal for brides who prefer minimalistic yet beautiful styles. It provides a soft frame around the face while keeping the hair out of the way, making it perfect for long wedding days.
8. Vintage-Inspired Waves
Vintage waves combined with a half-up, half-down look offer a glamorous and polished wedding hairstyle. Start by creating deep, structured waves with a curling iron, then gather the top portion of your hair, pinning it loosely at the back.
This hairstyle is perfect for brides who are inspired by old Hollywood glamour. It’s a sophisticated and timeless look that works well with both modern and vintage wedding dresses.
Vintage-Inspired Waves
9. Half-Up with Ribbon or Bow
Adding a ribbon or bow to a half-up style can give your hairstyle a playful and youthful vibe. Simply gather the top section of your hair, secure it with a small elastic, and tie a ribbon or bow at the base.
This style is ideal for brides who want a whimsical, girlish touch to their wedding day look. Choose a ribbon that matches your wedding theme for added coherence and style.
10. Half-Up with Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is a stunning addition to any half-up, half-down hairstyle. This braid involves weaving small sections of hair together, allowing the lower strands to “fall” through the braid, creating a cascading effect.
This hairstyle is perfect for a romantic and ethereal wedding look. It complements medium-length hair well and provides an elegant, flowing appearance that is ideal for any setting.
11. Messy Half-Up Knot
For a carefree and bohemian feel, try a messy half-up knot. This style involves gathering the top section of your hair and loosely knotting it at the back. Let a few strands fall naturally around your face for a soft, relaxed appearance.
This hairstyle is perfect for outdoor weddings or brides who want a laid-back look. The messy knot adds a casual elegance while still looking put-together.
12. Half-Up Twisted Bun
A twisted bun paired with loose hair creates a sophisticated half-up hairstyle. Begin by twisting two sections of hair from each side, then combine them at the back into a small bun. The rest of your hair can be left wavy or straight.
This style is perfect for brides who want a clean and chic look without too much volume. It’s a polished yet simple style that works well with modern and traditional wedding dresses.
13. Half-Up with Twisted Rope Braid
The rope braid is a simple yet elegant addition to a half-up hairstyle. To achieve this look, twist two sections of hair from the front of your head and wrap them around each other, securing them at the back.
This hairstyle is ideal for brides who want a clean and minimalist look with a touch of creativity. The rope braid adds texture without overwhelming the style, making it perfect for any wedding setting.
14. Half-Up with Flower Crown
For a bohemian or garden-themed wedding, a half-up hairstyle with a flower crown is the perfect choice. Gather the top section of your hair and secure it at the back, then place a delicate flower crown over the top.
This style is perfect for outdoor or nature-inspired weddings. The flower crown adds a whimsical, ethereal feel to the look, making it a popular choice for brides who love natural beauty.
15. Half-Up with Side Braid
A side braid incorporated into a half-up hairstyle gives a unique and asymmetrical look. Start by braiding one side of your hair, bringing it to the back, and securing it with pins. The rest of your hair can be styled in soft waves for a romantic finish.
This hairstyle is ideal for brides who want something slightly different while still maintaining a soft, elegant appearance. The side braid adds a creative touch that stands out without being too bold.
16. Sleek Half-Up Ponytail
For a modern and polished look, a sleek half-up ponytail is a perfect choice. Simply gather the top section of your hair into a ponytail, smoothing down any flyaways for a clean finish. The rest of your hair can be straightened or curled for contrast.
This hairstyle is ideal for brides who want a minimalistic and chic look. It’s a modern take on the half-up style that works well with both traditional and contemporary wedding dresses.
Conclusion
These 16 half-up, half-down hairstyles offer a variety of simple yet stunning options for brides with medium-length hair. Whether you prefer braids, curls, or sleek looks, each style provides the perfect balance between elegance and effortlessness. By incorporating personal touches like ribbons, flower crowns, or unique braiding techniques, you can create a look that complements your personality and wedding theme.
FAQs
How to Curl Medium Length Hair for a Wedding?
Prep Your Hair:
Wash and Condition: Start with clean, dry hair. Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to add body.
Heat Protectant: Apply a heat protectant spray to prevent damage from the curling iron or wand.
Choose Your Curling Tool:
Curling Iron: For tighter curls, use a 1-inch barrel. For looser, beachy waves, a larger barrel (1.5 to 2 inches) is better.
Curling Wand: Provides a more natural, beachy wave. Choose a wand with a barrel size that suits your desired curl type.
Section Your Hair:
Divide: Part your hair into sections—bottom, middle, and top. Secure the top and middle sections with clips.
Start Curling: Begin with the bottom section. Take 1-inch sections of hair and wrap them around the curling iron or wand. Hold for about 10-15 seconds, then release.
Curling Technique:
Direction: Alternate the direction of the curls (away from the face, then towards the face) to create a more natural look.
Volume: For more volume, curl hair at the roots as well.
Finish:
Cool: Allow curls to cool completely before touching them. This helps them hold their shape.
Hairspray: Lightly spray hairspray to set the curls in place.
Final Touches:
Loosen Curls: Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to gently separate and soften the curls.
Add Accessories: Decorate with hairpins, flowers, or other wedding accessories as desired.
How Many Packs of Hair for Half Up Half Down?
For a half up, half down hairstyle, the amount of hair extensions needed can vary based on the thickness and length you desire. Generally:
Volume: If you’re aiming for extra volume or length, 2-3 packs of hair extensions should suffice.
Thickness: For a more natural look, you might only need 1-2 packs.
Length: Longer hairstyles typically require more hair. If you’re adding significant length, consider 3-4 packs.
How to Get the Perfect Half Up Half Down?
Preparation:
Clean Hair: Start with clean, dry hair. Use a volumizing product if desired.
Tools: Have hair ties, bobby pins, and a comb ready.
Create the Half-Up Section:
Parting: Part your hair horizontally about halfway up the back of your head.
Securing: Gather the top section of your hair (from the part to the crown) and secure it with a hair tie or clip.
Style the Half-Up Section:
Tease for Volume: Tease the roots of the top section slightly for added volume.
Add Accessories: Incorporate accessories like a decorative comb or hairpins if desired.
Style the Half-Down Section:
Curl or Straighten: Style the bottom section of your hair as desired. You can curl it for a romantic look or leave it straight for a sleek finish.
Secure and Finish:
Pin: Use bobby pins to secure any loose sections or flyaways.
Hairspray: Lightly spray the entire hairstyle with a strong-hold hairspray to keep everything in place.
Final Adjustments:
Check: Ensure that the hairstyle is balanced and all sections are securely in place.
Adjust: Make any necessary adjustments to achieve the desired look.